Everything You Need to Know About the EU VAP (EU Schengen Visa Application Platform)

Getting a visa to travel to Europe can be a complicated, but necessary experience for non-EU citizens. While improvements to simplify the process have been made over the years, the European Union is streamlining it even more by introducing the EU VAP (EU Schengen Visa Application Platform), which will digitize the visa application process.

This online platform will make it easier and more accessible to apply for Schengen visas online, from filling out forms to uploading documents (such as your visa insurance)... even paying!

In this guide, you’ll learn how EU VAP works, who should use it, and what you need to know to ensure a successful visa application.

What is the EU VAP / EU Schengen Visa Application Platform?

The EU VAP is an online platform developed by the European Union to digitalize the Schengen visa application process. The goal is to create a more efficient, secure, and convenient way for non-EU citizens to apply for Schengen visas, without needing to visit embassies or consulates for multiple in-person appointments.

This new platform will allow users to fill out the visa application form, upload required documents, pay fees, and schedule biometric appointments all at once, all online.

Notably, the EU VAP is part of the broader push by the European Union to modernize visa processes, reduce paperwork, and improve security by integrating more advanced technologies into visa handling.

EU VAP is great news for anyone and everyone applying for Schengen visas!

Why is the visa process going digital?

The digitalization of the Schengen visa process helps everyone – from applicants to countries.

Until EU VAP, all Schengen visa applications have been submitted by paper, from an embassy or consulate. Bringing Schengen visa applications online makes the entire process more secure, reducing the risk of fraud, loss of papers, and more.

Additionally, processing and tracking such personal data can happen in more secure, advanced technological systems.

EU VAP is a forward-thinking initiative designed to handle a large number of visa applications more securely and faster – and make it easier for everyone involved.

Is EU VAP Legit?

Absolutely! EU VAP is entirely legitimate. It is an official platform created and endorsed by the European Union. It’s also part of the EU's wider efforts to modernize their visa processes, making travel more accessible for people from non-EU countries.

The platform is highly secure, using modern encryption and other safety protocols to protect applicants' data.

Is there a difference between applying for a Schengen visa on EU VAP vs. in person?

The most felt difference between applying through EU VAP and in person will be convenience.

With the EU VAP, you’ll be able to complete most of the application process from the comfort of your home, significantly cutting down the need to visit embassies and consulates. While biometric data still needs to be collected at an approved center or consulate, the rest of the procedure will be completed entirely online.

In-person applications, on the other hand, can require more than one trip to an embassy or consulate, waiting in queues, and manual paperwork, which can be time-consuming and more prone to error.

EU VAP platform simplifies and accelerates this by reducing the need for physical visits, except for a mandatory biometric appointment.
The Schengen visa that you obtain from EU VAP will have no difference in terms of criteria, advantages, and rights.

Who needs to use EU VAP?

Non-EU citizens who need a Schengen visa to enter Europe for travel, business, or other short-term purposes will need to use EU VAP. Whether you're planning a holiday, a business trip, attending a conference in a Schengen area country, or something else, this online platform will be used to apply for your visa instead of in-person appointments (once the system is operational, of course).

The platform is particularly beneficial for people who live far from embassies or consulates, as it allows them to complete most of the visa process remotely, saving both time and travel expenses.

Who shouldn’t use EU VAP?

Citizens of countries that have visa-free access to the Schengen area do not need to apply for a Schengen visa in the majority of cases though they may need to apply for ETIAS), and therefore wouldn’t use this platform.

Additionally, applicants requiring long-term visas, such as work or study visas, may still need to go through the traditional visa process, as these applications often involve additional documentation and interviews.

Can you get a Schengen visa online?

Currently, no. In the coming months/years, yes. With the introduction of the EU VAP, visa-seekers will need to apply for their Schengen visa online. While you will still need to attend an appointment to submit your biometric data, the entire application process, from submitting documents to paying fees, will be completed via the platform.

This digitalization represents a significant shift from the traditional in-person application method to a more seamless and convenient experience for applicants.

Which countries can you get a visa for with EU VAP?

The EU VAP is for Schengen visas. That means you can apply for a visa from any of the 29 Schengen countries, once the system is up and running.

Schengen countries

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland

How do you apply for a Schengen visa with EU VAP?

The EU VAP is designed to be user-friendly, making the application process straightforward to navigate. Here's an overview of the steps involved:

Steps for the EU VAP application process

1. Research which Schengen visa you need for your upcoming journey

Before beginning your application, ensure you know which type of Schengen visa you need. Visa types depend on your travel purpose, including tourism, business, family visits, and more.

If you don’t know which type of visa you need, you won’t be able to properly prepare your documents, as the requirements are often different for each type of visa.

2. Familiarize yourself with the requirements for your Schengen visa

Each type of visa has specific requirements, such as proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and financial means. Ensure you understand these requirements to avoid delays in processing.

3. Prepare the necessary documents for your EU VAP application

Once you know which documents you’ll need, it’s time to get everything together. Gather all of the necessary documents such as your passport, recent photos, proof of itinerary, travel insurance, and more. The EU VAP platform will guide you through the specific documents needed for your application.

Because EU VAP is online, you will need to upload your documents digitally. Make sure every document is clear, with natural lighting, and completely legible.

4. Secure your flight itinerary and Schengen accommodations

As part of your required documentation, you’ll need to provide a flight itinerary and proof of accommodation. Accommodations can be a hotel or a resident hosting you.

5. Purchase your Schengen travel insurance

Another document you’ll need to provide will be Schengen travel insurance, which is a mandatory requirement for a Schengen visa. Your insurance must be Schengen-compliant.

6. Submit your documents and pay the visa application fee online

After submitting all of your documentation, you’ll need to pay the visa application fee, which can be done directly through the platform. Make sure your credit or debit card is ready for the transaction.

There isn’t a standardized fee on EU VAP. Visa application fees depend on a variety of factors, such as the age(s) of the applicant(s), the country you’re applying for, and the type of visa.

Also, keep in mind that visa application fees are non-refundable, even in the event of visa denial.

7. Follow the application steps and prompts on EU VAP’s online Schengen visa platform

Once you have everything ready, you can complete the online application by following the prompts. The platform is designed to guide you step-by-step, ensuring you don’t miss any critical details.

8. Schedule Your EU VAP biometric appointment

You'll need to schedule a biometric appointment to be completed at an approved visa application center or consulate in your country of residence.

This is the only in-person step required in the process. If you've submitted biometrics recently (within the last 59 months), you may not have to attend a biometric appointment. Check on the official EU VAP website.

Tips to prepare for your Schengen visa application on EU VAP

Preparation is key. A few things you can do to improve your EU VAP experience are:

Double-check all of your documents before uploading them to EU VAP

• Ensure that your files are formatted in the way that EU VAP has asked
• Check that the information is correct
• Check that all of the documents are clear and legible
• Have your credit/debit card ready to submit your visa fee payment
• Save, screenshot, or write down any confirmation numbers/information you’re given after you’ve submitted your finished application
• Don’t delete any of your files or documents after you’ve submitted
• Save your biometric appointment confirmation

Will I receive my visa from EU VAP in the mail?

No. This is another big change in the Schengen visa process. Through EU VAP, visas will no longer be printed into your passport. They will be digital and linked to your passport.

When does EU VAP begin?

EU VAP is set to begin rolling out in the coming months/years. Countries will be allowed a transition period to learn and adopt the new system. Some countries will adopt EU VAP before others, but all countries are expected to adopt this new visa-processing method by 2023.

EU VAP Key Takeaways

• Schengen visa applications will be able to be processed online in the future with EU VAP.
• EU VAP is a legitimate, secure portal – created and endorsed by the European Union.
• EU VAP isn’t available yet but will be in the coming years (by 2030).
• While EU VAP is mostly online, it’s not entirely online.
• You will still need to attend a biometric appointment in person as a part of the Schengen visa process
• When EU VAP launches, you’ll still be able to apply for Schengen visas in person, should you choose
• There is no difference between a Schengen visa obtained from EU VAP vs. one obtained in person
• EU VAP visas won’t be printed in your passport; they’ll be completely digital